Election result sends clear message, say regional groups

People rallied about the benefits of the resources sector before Saturday's federal election.

Regional Queensland has sent politicians a very strong message that opening up the Galilee Basin is vitally important, says Townsville Enterprise chief executive officer Patricia O’Callaghan.

She was commenting after the Coalition – and a clear commitment on coal’s future – came out on top in the seats of Herbert, Dawson, Capricornia and Flynn

“This has been a Federal Election campaign like no other for North Queensland,” Ms O’Callaghan said.

“Never before have we seen the issues at a State level so heavily dominate the narrative of a national agenda as what we have over the past five weeks.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Patricia O’Callaghan.

“The fate of the Galilee Basin was no longer just barbecue conversation in Townsville, Mackay and Clermont, but discussed and debated across the whole country.

“Although the final approvals on the Carmichael Mine are sitting with the Queensland Government, the positions from political parties at all levels and the opinions formed from all Australians on this project has had impact on the results of this election.

“When we launched the Galilee campaign with our business community, Rockhampton and Mackay, Townsville Enterprise was accused by some of being political. This Federal election is now evidence that we were simply reflecting our broader community’s views. “

Mackay-based Resource Industry Network said the federal election result demonstrated that voters were well-informed and supported political parties that communicated their policies with clarity.

RIN chairman Dave Hartigan thanked everyone who contributed to the organisation’s pro-coal ‘For the Future of our Region’ advocacy campaign, launched in early April ahead of the election.

Mr Hartigan said the campaign aimed to educate the community on the facts associated with the resources sector, advocate for the region’s future and secure opportunities for the region and the sector.

RIN chairman Dave Hartigan.

“It is obvious voters have leaned towards political parties with the clearest messages around Queensland jobs, investment and pragmatic solutions for the environment,” he said.

“We look forward to working with all levels of government to make Queensland the preferred mining investment state, to share our great minerals with the world, and to get the Carmichael Mine and Galilee Basin established for the benefit of all Queenslanders, Australians and the people of the world who need power for many years to come.”